Scott Watters has been sacked as coach of struggling AFL club St Kilda, with a formal announcement expected this afternoon.
The move comes after Fairfax Media journalist Caroline Wilson revealed that Watters had come close to losing his job last month when a review found that key club officials had expressed dissatisfaction with the head coach.
A rift with football boss Chris Pelchen had also been specified as the cause for unrest at Seaford after a turbulent trading period that saw Nick Dal Santo and Ben McEvoy moved on from the club.
Watters appeared on Melbourne radio station SEN this morning and scoffed at any hint of unrest.
“When a president sits with you and says we see you as a long term coach, that’s enough for me,” he said.
Watters was appointed as Saints head coach in late 2011 following the departure of Ross Lyon. In his two seasons as head coach Watters’ record stood at 17 wins and 27 losses, with the club finishing ninth and 16th in 2012 and 2013 respectively.
According to reports the coach had been informed of his sacking late in the morning. The Saints’ playing group have also been notified of the decision and St Kilda President Peter Summers will make an announcement this afternoon.
Former Premiership-winning Port Adelaide coach Mark Williams has firmed as Watters’ likely replacement
St Kilda officials were unable to be contacted by The Roar about the termination of Watters’ contract.
More to follow.
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